This exhibition celebrates the ever-evolving artistic life of the inventive and prolific Singaporean artist Teo Eng Seng. The Cultural Medallion Recipient is best known for his experimentation with various mediums and his very own invention of "paperdyesculp", which is a technique involving dyed papier-mâché and sometimes mixed with other materials like fabric and fibreglass. 

Guided tours are available.

  • When: Now till 2 Feb 2025
  • Suitable For: Adults, Families, Visitors 65 and above, Visitors with accessibility needs, Students and Educators
  • Where: Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery 1 and Level B1, The Spine Hall, City Hall Wing
  • Special Exhibition pass required.

#WereHappyAreYouHappy

NationalGallerySingapore
👨‍🎨 Mr Teo Eng Seng, one of Singapore’s Cultural Medallion recipients, has been at the forefront of our visual arts scene for > 70 years. His invention of paperdyesculp — a technique he developed that blends paper and dyes into artworks — has made him one of our most innovative and prolific artists. Throughout his career, Mr Teo has created thought-provoking art that merges humour, social reflection, and creativity, making him a true trailblazer in our cultural landscape. His largest solo exhibition to date, “Teo Eng Seng: We’re Happy. Are you Happy?”, is now open at the nationalgallerysingapore 🎨🏛️ It features a wide array of Mr Teo’s works that illustrates his lifelong dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, and capturing our Singapore story. 🇸🇬 For one, “Ah Wah and Ah Kiat: Crossing Borders” captures the daily migration of workers between countries, a common sight at the Causeway between Singapore and Malaysia, one of the busiest border crossings in the world. On a more personal level, this artwork pays tribute to Mr Teo’s former assistants, Ah Wah and Ah Kiat, who regularly crossed borders from Johor to work with him. 🚗🛵 Another artwork, “The Net (Most Definitely Singapore River)”, is an installation of a fishing net entangled with paperdyesculp debris. A realistic depiction of the Singapore River during the 1970s and 80s, this work is a powerful reflection on the Singapore River’s past pollution and how far we have come today. 🧹🌊 ✨This exhibition is not only a celebration of Mr Teo’s contributions to the arts, but also a tribute to his profound influence on our local arts scene and the next generation of artists. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Singapore’s vibrant art history. Check it out from 6 Sep 2024 to 2 Feb 2025! mccysg

Experience the immediacy and spontaneity of everyday reality

Explore close to 70 artworks from veteran artist and Cultural Medallion recipient, Teo Eng Seng, in the most comprehensive survey of his works to date throughout seven decades of his career as an artist and educator. 

Find out how Teo uses everyday materials in his art, showcasing his commitment to social engagement and change. In the 1980s, Teo invented “paperdyesculp”, a medium involves shaping dyed papier-mâché and other materials into sculptural artworks.

This reflects his philosophy of creative spontaneity, and his desire to reflect on the complexities of daily life with humour and kitsch.

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Did you know?
Did you know?

At the age of 19, with just £25, Teo embarked on an adventurous journey hitch-hiking through India, Pakistan, and Europe with five fellow Sea Scouts before reaching Britain.

He took on various roles, including working at textile companies, tyre factories, and even cleaned railroad bridges to fund his education. Despite that, he still attended night classes at the Central School of Arts and Crafts (now Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design) for two years. 

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Ways to experience this exhibition

Sculpture Trail Guide for Families
Free
Sculpture Trail Guide for Families

Explore the wonders of sculptures by artists like Teo Eng Seng with specially designed trail for kids. Self-guided resources for families and will be available during the exhibition period, on a first come first serve basis.

Free
Drop-in Activity at Keppel Centre for Art Education

Join us in transforming used paper into unique sculptures, inspired by Teo Eng Seng’s work, The Net: Most Definitely the Singapore River.

Docent-led Tours (Teo Eng Seng and Kim Lim)

Special Exhibition or All Access passes are required for this guided tour.

English: Thu–Sun, 3.30–4.30pm | Mandarin: Sat & Sun, 1.30–2.30pm